Photo Gallery: 10 February 2026, CFO Return on CapExcellence Summit, Sandton Hotel, JHB

After 15 years at PwC, Dale Stonebridge made the move from professional services into banking, taking on the role of CFO for FirstRand’s Commercial and Corporate Bank in May 2026. He reflects on the career decisions, family values and lessons in leadership that have shaped him.

City of Cape Town CFO Kevin Jacoby outlined how leadership, data and changes to internal processes can help local government improve infrastructure execution while maintaining financial governance.

Nedbank CFO Mike Davis explores how technology, AI and data are reshaping the finance function and expanding the CFO’s role far beyond the numbers.

JSE CFO Fawzia Suliman discusses the evolving role of the CFO, the importance of confidence and discipline, and why finance leaders must prepare themselves for what comes next.

Nerissa Samuel, finance director for South Africa and Southern Africa at Gilead Sciences, believes the CFO role extends far beyond financial stewardship. From navigating complex healthcare environments and embracing AI to mentoring future finance leaders and supporting community initiatives, she sees finance as a platform to create sustainable value, strengthen governance and ultimately make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

Fawzia Suliman reflects on her journey across CFO, COO and CEO roles, the lessons that have shaped her leadership approach and how endurance sport, travel and time with family help her maintain perspective.